Strelitzia nicolai
Common Names: bird-of-paradise tree, giant bird-of-paradise
Family: Strelitziaceae (bird-of-paradise Family)
tree Shrub Can be Grown in Containers Grows Well Indoors. Has
evergreen foliage Has Unusual or Interesting Foliage Flowers
Description
Picture a crown of banana-like leaves atop a palm tree trunk,
combine with huge, uniquely beautiful flowers, and then what you
have is the exotically named bird of paradise tree. Related to the
bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia regina), this close cousin is a
much larger plant forming huge clumps of stems to 30 feet in
comparison to S. regina's 3 to 4 feet height.
The 6 - 8' leaves are grey-green and arranged in fans atop the
trunks. Plants form clumps of several variably-sized trunks that may
grow to 18' in width under optimal conditions. The infloresence (the
paradisiacal bird-like flower structures) are composed of a dark
blue bract, white sepals and bluish-purple "tongue". The entire
"bird" can be as large as 7" high by 18" long and is typically held
just above the point where the leaf fan emerges from the trunk.
Flowers are followed by triangular seed capsules.
Location
All members of the family Strelitziaceae are native to sub-tropical
South Africa. The bird of paradise tree is becoming very popular
both as a subject for use in near frost-free landscapes and as a
subject for interiorscapes. Plant in sheltered spot as high winds
will shred leaves resulting in scruffy looking plants.
Culture
The "big bird" likes enriched moisture-retentive soils. It responds
enthusiastically to fertilizer, so feed about once a month during
the warm growing season to stimulate rapid growth. When plants
attain desired size you can withold fertilizer to slow growth and
keep plant in scale.
Light: Full sun to part shade. My observations indicate that the
handsomest specimens are those that receive some shade during the
heat of the day.
Moisture: Water when dry. Does not like saturated conditions.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 - 11. This plant is hardier than S. regina -
it can handle brief periods of frost with no damage. Leaf damage
occurs at temperatures below 28 F but plant will recover.
Propagation: Division of clumps is the easiest way as well as from
suckers. Also from seed but note that plants require many years of
growth before they begin blooming.
Usage
Bird of paradise tree is a spectacular accent plant. Use in pairs as
sentinels guarding entries and gateways. Also a great plant for
large containers situated both outdoors or inside. Indeed, large
populations of bird of paradise tree now inhabit shopping malls all
over the country. It's size and bulk make it suitable for
large-scale commercial landscapes, golf courses, parks, campuses and
mall food courts.
Features
This is an easy to grow, very non-messy, low maintenance plant that
is a good choice for use near pool and patio. Plants are
inexpensive, available in a range of sizes, and grow rather quickly
and so are a great choice for new home landscapes in warm areas.
Bird of paradise tree is just the ticket when you want tough,
durable beauty and unique form in a large plant. |
